THE FORMALIZATION OF KNOWLEDGE-BASED SYSTEMS VALIDATION AND VERIFICATION - PROMISES AND PITFALLS

The growing practical application of knowledge-based systems (KBS) has increased the need for reliable and efficient verification and validation (V&V). This paper discusses the use of formal methods and specifications as a solution to the need. It is argued that the use of formal methods is based on a number of assumptions which, on closer inspection, are very similar to the assumptions underlying informal methods. Caution in the use of formal methods is therefore advised. The paper describes the EPSRIT project VIVA which aims to improve KBS V&V by enlarging the range of V&V functions and increase the scope of application to all steps in the KBS life-cycle. This approach complements the use of more demanding formal methods.